When it comes to employee benefits, it’s not always about the money. For startups and young companies there are ways to motivate and reward the team that won’t blow your budget. In fact, more imaginative perks can actually set you apart from your competitors and showcase your unique culture to potential candidates.
Here are five employee benefits that won’t break the bank.
Employee of the month
Nothing says ‘you’re appreciated’ like a little public praise. Singling out an employee who has gone above and beyond in that month is a great way to recognise their outstanding performance and encourage their colleagues to follow suit.
Wellness benefits
Think of the perks you can offer that will boost team morale and wellness – free fruit in the morning, discounted gym memberships, a weekly yoga class or even an external mental health workshop. Your staff want to know that you have their wellbeing in mind.
56% of people say their company doesn’t have sufficient supports in place to help with mental health issues.
Duvet days
Give employees one day a year (outside of their holidays or sick leave) to stay at home no questions asked. Alternatively, giving your staff a day off on their birthday is a small but effective gesture.
Casual dress code
A non corporate environment can be a big draw for prospective talent. A casual dress code can indicate a culture that allows employees to bring their personality to work with them.
Innovation days
Pick one day every quarter where the whole company downs tools and comes together for a brainstorming session. Each time focus on a different area of the business and allow everyone to contribute their ideas and feedback. Not only is this an amazing way to educate people about the various elements of your organisation, it can also create buy-in with more disengaged employees. It might even result in your next big idea.
Remote working
Giving employees the freedom to work remotely fosters goodwill among the team and is a cost-effective benefit for those looking for increased flexibility.
Office space
The environment we work in has a big impact on our productivity, energy and happiness. You don’t need massive resources to make the office a pleasant place to work. Use colour on the walls, put plants around the desk space and create communal areas for the team to get together and chat, away from their computers or phones. Everyone loves a good bean bag!